Synopsis
New Zealand's PM Christopher Luxon is visiting Delhi from March 16 to 20, following an invitation from PM Narendra Modi. This marks a significant diplomatic engagement, with discussions on strengthening bilateral relations and trade.Key Takeaways
- Christopher Luxon's official visit to India commenced on March 16.
- His discussions with PM Modi will focus on enhancing bilateral relations.
- Luxon will engage with Indian business leaders in Mumbai.
- The visit highlights the strong ties between India and New Zealand.
- Bilateral trade reached $1.80 billion in 2022.
New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, is scheduled to arrive in Delhi today for an official visit to India, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
His arrival is expected around 2:30 pm.
This visit is significant as it marks the first time in nine years that a New Zealand Prime Minister has visited India, with the last being former PM John Key.
Luxon will stay in India until March 20 and is joined by a high-ranking delegation that includes ministers, senior officials, business leaders, media professionals, and members of the Indian diaspora from New Zealand.
Prior to his arrival, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a video on X showcasing the extensive relationship between India and New Zealand.
According to the MEA, "PM Christopher Luxon will be arriving shortly on an Official Visit to India. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Ministers, senior officials, businesses, media & members of the Indian diaspora community in New Zealand."
During his stay, Luxon plans to engage in discussions with PM Modi on March 17, centering on various facets of India-New Zealand relations. Following their talks, PM Modi will host a lunch in his honor. On the same day, Luxon will also meet with President Droupadi Murmu.
Moreover, Luxon is scheduled to be the chief guest at the inaugural session of the 10th Raisina Dialogue 2025 on March 17, where he will deliver a keynote address.
On March 19-20, he will travel to Mumbai to interact with Indian business leaders and representatives from various sectors. He is expected to depart for Wellington from Mumbai on March 20.
As stated by the MEA, "Prime Minister Rt Hon Luxon's visit highlights the deep-rooted and enduring connections between India and New Zealand. It reaffirms both nations' commitment to furthering their bilateral relationship across all sectors and enhancing our close people-to-people ties."
In February, Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand, Neeta Bhushan, met with Luxon to discuss ways to enhance collaboration in various domains, emphasizing India's determination to strengthen the bilateral partnership.
Luxon and PM Modi have interacted on several occasions, including the East Asia Summit in Laos in October 2024. Before that, the leaders had a telephone conversation in July 2024.
India and New Zealand have historically enjoyed close ties driven by strategic interests, trade, education, culture, research, and innovation. The two countries have transcended geographical barriers to build a prosperous partnership, significantly supported by a substantial Indian diaspora in New Zealand that fosters strong cultural cooperation.
Bilateral trade between India and New Zealand reached $1.80 billion in 2022, establishing New Zealand as India’s 11th-largest two-way trading partner.
The two leaders also reminisced about the successful visit of President Droupadi Murmu to New Zealand in August 2024. PM Modi welcomed New Zealand's decision to join the International Solar Alliance and had previously extended an invitation to Luxon for this visit.
Following their meeting at the ASEAN-India Summit in Laos in October 2024, PM Modi tweeted on X: "Had an excellent meeting with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Mr. Christopher Luxon. We value our friendship with New Zealand, united by a commitment to democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Our discussions included sectors such as economic cooperation, tourism, education, and innovation."
Luxon's visit is anticipated to further solidify the bilateral relationship, paving the way for enhanced cooperation across diverse sectors.
